Scarecrows are more than just a traditional symbol of autumn. They serve practical purposes in gardens and festive decorative roles on porches, lawns, and entryways. Whether you’re aiming to keep birds away from your crops or add charm to your fall decor, exploring creative scarecrow ideas can help you personalize the season in a memorable and functional way. This guide features 20 scarecrow ideas that blend functionality, creativity, and simplicity.
1. Jumping Scarecrow
A jumping scarecrow has become a trending scarecrow option for 2025. It is fun and creative and kids will love it if you are making it for Halloween! The Scarecrow rotates and moves in the wind and “jumps” back and forth due to the spring it is attached to.
See a video below of a jumping scarecrow in action! 
Check out our post on how to make a jumping scarecrow with an old Pogo Stick
Or if you are looking for an easy option then you can buy a Jumping scarecrow like the one above here
2. Classic Straw Stuffed Scarecrow
If you prefer a traditional scarecrow then you can DIY one using old clothes, a burlap sack, and straw stuffing. This method works because the loose straw provides structure while also allowing airflow, which helps prevent mold. By using worn-out flannel shirts and jeans, you get a rustic look that suits autumn themes perfectly. The burlap head can be decorated with markers or buttons for facial features, offering a friendly or spooky appearance depending on your goal.
Steps:
- Stuff old clothes with straw.
- Attach the arms and legs with twine.
- Fill a burlap sack for the head and decorate it.
- Use a wooden cross to support the body.
3. Scarecrow Made From PVC Pipe
Use a PVC pipe structure instead of wood for a more weather resistant scarecrow! We suggest this scarecrow idea for anyone needing a sturdy framework that can withstand wet weather. Unlike wooden frames that may rot, PVC is moisture-resistant and easy to assemble with elbows and T-joints. This design is excellent for both functional and decorative use in gardens or porch displays.
You can follow the same DIY video as above but instead of wood use PVC piping!
Steps:
- Cut PVC pieces to form arms, torso, and legs.
- Connect with T-joints and elbows.
- Dress the structure with clothing.
- Attach a stuffed head using foam or cloth.
4. Hay Bale Scarecrow
Using a hay bale as the torso is a clever way to integrate fall decor with scarecrow function. We like this idea because hay is already a harvest symbol and provides a dense, compact base that stands upright easily. The hay bale creates a natural aesthetic and works well when paired with corn stalks, pumpkins, and other seasonal elements.
Steps:
- Position a hay bale vertically.
- Attach limbs using wire or rope.
- Add a pumpkin or sack head.
- Dress and decorate.
5. Pumpkin Head Scarecrow
Pumpkins make excellent scarecrow heads because they’re sturdy, seasonally appropriate, and easy to carve. We suggest using this idea if you want to merge Halloween themes with traditional scarecrow decor. Carving a simple face lets you add personality, while an uncarved pumpkin can offer a more subtle harvest look.
Steps:
- Choose a medium pumpkin.
- Carve or paint a face.
- Mount it onto a stake.
- Build a body using wood or pipe and dress it.
6. Scarecrow With Solar Light Eyes
Integrating solar-powered garden lights into your scarecrow’s face not only adds character but also boosts nighttime visibility. We recommend this for anyone who wants their scarecrow to serve a decorative purpose after dark. The lights can create a glowing effect that enhances safety and seasonal ambiance.
Steps:
- Insert small solar lights into a foam or plastic head. (optional: cover in burlap and cut holes for the solar eyes)
- Position the head on your scarecrow frame.
- Ensure the solar panels are exposed to sunlight.
- Decorate as desired.
7. Tin Can Armor Scarecrow
This creative idea uses recycled tin cans for arms, legs, or chest armor. We suggest this method if you’re looking for a unique, eco-friendly take that also adds sound deterrents for birds. The movement and clinking of cans in the wind helps scare off wildlife, adding function to the decoration.
Steps:
- Collect clean tin cans.
- Drill holes and string them together.
- Attach to your scarecrow frame.
- Combine with fabric for a mixed-media effect.
8. Kids’ Clothes Scarecrow Idea
Creating a scarecrow using children’s clothing is a fun family activity and a great way to recycle outgrown clothes. We find this idea particularly engaging for kids because they recognize the clothing and often take pride in the final result. The smaller size also makes the scarecrow easier to make, you need less materials AND it is more manageable for patios or entryways.
Steps:
- Stuff a child’s outfit with straw.
- Use a small ball or pillow for the head.
- Let kids draw the face.
- Secure to a wooden or PVC Pipe frame.
9. Witch-Themed Scarecrow Ideas
A witch scarecrow works well for Halloween or fall festivals. We suggest using black fabric, a broom, and a pointed hat to transform a basic structure into a spooky centerpiece. The idea is popular because it blends seasonal fun with traditional harvest imagery.
Steps:
- Use a dark outfit and cloak.
- Add a witch hat and broom.
- Paint or carve a spooky face.
- Secure with rope or wire.
10. Sitting Scarecrow On Bench
A seated scarecrow adds a whimsical touch to porches or garden corners. We recommend this idea if you have outdoor furniture you can decorate seasonally. The seated position also allows for companion props like pets, pumpkins, or books to enhance the display.
Steps:
- Build a flexible frame that bends at the waist using either wood or plastic pipes. Instead of creating a T frame, you are now creating an L frame, so it can sit.
- Sit the figure on a bench.
- Add filled gloves and boots.
- Position props around it.
11. Animal Scarecrow Ideas
Animal-shaped scarecrows are especially useful for targeting specific pests. We recommend using owl or fox designs since birds and rodents often avoid them. These scarecrows are both decorative and strategic, particularly in vegetable patches.
Steps:
- Cut animal shapes from wood or cardboard.
- Paint with realistic features.
- Mount on a frame.
- Add reflective eyes for extra deterrence.
12. Female-Themed Scarecrow Ideas
A scarecrow dressed in a skirt, apron, or floral hat offers a welcoming twist. We suggest this idea to soften the look and add charm to gardens and front doors. It’s also a fun way to personalize with accessories like handbags or jewelry.
Steps:
- Dress the frame with a dress or skirt.
- Use a scarf for hair.
- Add painted or sewn facial details.
- Decorate with faux flowers.
13. Upside-Down Pot or Bucket Head Scarecrow
An inverted pot or bucket as a head gives your scarecrow a unique silhouette. We recommend this for a quirky, industrial look. Plastic or metal buckets are weather-resistant and can be painted easily for customization.
Steps:
- Drill air holes in a bucket.
- Paint a face on it.
- Attach to a frame.
- Dress with weatherproof clothes.
14. Patriotic Scarecrow
Blending autumn themes with national pride, this idea incorporates flags, red-white-blue clothing, and star patterns. We suggest this for fall displays near national holidays or veteran memorials. It stands out while honoring community spirit.
Steps:
- Use denim and flag-inspired shirts.
- Add mini flags to the hands or hat.
- Paint stars on the outfit.
- Decorate in blue and red tinsel
15. Light Up Scarecrow Ideas
Using weather proof fairy lights, this idea ensures your scarecrow stands out at night. We recommend this for safety and visibility near walkways or roads. However, it’s also a super fun Halloween effect that doesn’t require electricity.
Steps:
- Drape fairy lights over the inside frame of the scarecrow
- Drape in a burlap sack or light material, so that the lights can shine through
- Place near a light source for charging if not using battery powered fairy lights
- Test at night to ensure brightness.
16. Create Fun Movie Star Figures
If you are feeling extra creative then you can try recreate a famous movie figure. Many people attempt to create “scarecrow Shrek” and even “scarecrow Mary Poppins”. This is a fun idea for kids and is perfect for Halloween.
17. Ironing Board Lady Scarecrow Ideas
This creative scarecrow idea uses an old ironing board as the base structure for a standing female figure. We recommend this approach for its simplicity, stability, and slim shape that mimics a human silhouette. The narrow frame makes it ideal for small porches or garden paths, while the flat surface provides an easy way to attach clothing and props. With the addition of a skirt, apron, and accessories, it can resemble a friendly farmhouse hostess or a whimsical Halloween witch.
Steps:
- Stand an old ironing board upright and secure it against a wall, tree or fence.
- Drape a skirt or long dress over the bottom half.
- Use PVC pipes as the arms and cover them in material
- Use a bucket, pillow, foam or sack for the head and attach it to the top.
- Add a blouse, apron, and scarf or bonnet to complete the look.
